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The Bible’s Clarity for Every Believer
Contending for the Word – October 8, 2025
Written by Dave Jenkins
Introduction
Some people think the Bible is too difficult to understand, that only scholars, pastors, or theologians can make sense of it. While it is true that some passages are challenging, the doctrine of the clarity of Scripture (also called perspicuity) teaches that the Bible is clear enough for ordinary believers to understand its main message of salvation and godly living.
So, is the Bible clear enough for ordinary believers? This is a question many wrestle with, and the answer is an encouraging yes.
The Clarity of Scripture
The clarity of Scripture does not mean that every verse is easy. Peter himself admitted that some of Paul’s writings are “hard to understand” (2 Peter 3:16). But it does mean that the essential truths of God’s Word are plain and accessible. The gospel of salvation through Christ can be understood by all who read or hear with a humble heart.
Biblical Basis
- Psalm 19:7: “The testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.” God’s Word gives wisdom to even the uneducated.
- Deuteronomy 6:6–7: God commands parents to teach His Word diligently to their children, because it is clear enough for children to understand and apply.
These passages remind us that God has spoken in a way that is not shrouded in mystery but open to His people.
Why It Matters
If the Bible were only understandable to experts, ordinary believers would be left in spiritual darkness, dependent on others for truth. But God, in His kindness, has spoken clearly. This protects us from elitism and assures us that every Christian can know God and walk in His ways through His Word.
Application
Do not let the difficulty of certain passages keep you from reading your Bible. The main message—who God is, what He has done in Christ, and how we are to live for Him is clear. Read the Bible with prayer, humility, and persistence, trusting that God will give you understanding.
The same God who gave His Word delights to make it known to His people.
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Dave Jenkins is happily married to his wife, Sarah. He is a writer, editor, and speaker living in beautiful Southern Oregon. Dave is a lover of Christ, His people, the Church, and sound theology. He serves as the Executive Director of Servants of Grace Ministries, the Executive Editor of Theology for Life Magazine, the Host and Producer of Equipping You in Grace Podcast, and is a contributor to and producer of Contending for the Word. He is the author of The Word Explored: The Problem of Biblical Illiteracy and What To Do About It (House to House, 2021), The Word Matters: Defending Biblical Authority Against the Spirit of the Age (G3 Press, 2022), and Contentment: The Journey of a Lifetime (Theology for Life, 2024). You can find him on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube, or read his newsletter. Dave loves to spend time with his wife, going to movies, eating at a nice restaurant, or going out for a round of golf with a good friend. He is also a voracious reader, in particular of Reformed theology, and the Puritans. You will often find him when he’s not busy with ministry reading a pile of the latest books from a wide variety of Christian publishers. Dave received his M.A.R. and M.Div through Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary.
